President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inaugural Presidential Media Chat on December 23, 2024, offered a detailed account of his administration’s progress and plans to tackle Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. The hour-long engagement provided a platform for the President to address issues such as economic reforms, national security, tax modernization, and recent tragedies that have shaken the country.
Beginning on a somber note, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected by stampede incidents in Ibadan, Abuja, and Anambra. He called for a more organized approach to charitable acts, urging philanthropists to prioritize safety over public showmanship. “Compassion must be accompanied by caution,” he said, adding that these tragedies underscore the importance of planning and collaboration when assisting vulnerable communities.
On national security, the President highlighted significant strides made under his leadership. He noted that areas once dominated by criminal elements have experienced a dramatic reduction in violence. “We have restored security to regions that were once under siege. Roads that were unsafe are now accessible,” he declared. Tinubu attributed this progress to an overhauled security architecture and enhanced cooperation between the military, law enforcement agencies, and local communities.
The discussion moved to the contentious topic of economic reforms, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy and the harmonization of foreign exchange (forex) rates. Defending these decisions, Tinubu explained that these measures were necessary to halt the bleeding of Nigeria’s financial reserves. He assured Nigerians that the funds saved are being redirected toward infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
“We cannot mortgage the future of this great nation for short-term convenience,” Tinubu asserted. He acknowledged the temporary pain these reforms have caused but stressed their inevitability. “We are laying a foundation for sustainable growth that will benefit generations to come,” he said.
The President also unveiled plans to reform Nigeria’s tax system, describing it as an essential step toward building a modern economy. “Our tax policies must align with global standards,” he said, emphasizing that an efficient tax regime is key to diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on oil revenues.
Addressing concerns about the impact of these reforms on ordinary Nigerians, Tinubu urged patience and resilience. He acknowledged the sacrifices citizens are making and assured them that relief is on the horizon. “These are challenging times, but they are also transformative times. I promise you, the rewards will outweigh the pains,” he said, exuding confidence in the eventual success of his policies.
President Tinubu’s first media chat was a clarion call for unity, patience, and a collective commitment to rebuilding Nigeria. His message resonated with optimism, leaving Nigerians with a sense of direction and hope for a better future.
The full media chat is available for public viewing, allowing citizens to engage directly with the President’s vision and policies.
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